Evaluation of performance of soyabean under farmers specific biosphysical and social environment

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An on farm study was conducted in Kasungu at Mkanakhoti and Kandeu Extension Planning Areas in Malawi to investigate the effect of multi-environment (biophysical and social economic) factors on performance of soybean. The community was sensitized after which, farmers to host the trials were purposively sampled. A total of 100 farmers were selected. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design, with each farmer considered a replicate. Experimental plots measured 10 m by 10 m, and on average acommodated 14 ridges. Soybean seed was inoculated with Bradyrhizobium japonicum following a procedure outlined by Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Food Security. Ocepara 4 (soybean variety) was planted in double rows at a spacing of 0.25 x 0.005m. Sets of double rows were 0.75 m apart. The questionnaire was used to collect socio-economic data, plot management and cropping history. Soil texture and soil pH were determined following standard procedures. Majority (64%) of the farmers had attained primary education. Soils were mostly sandy and loam. Soybean grain yield varied significantly (p<0.01) between Mkanakhoti and Kaluluma EPA. Plant density also varied between farmers fields.